Community members gathered near Coach Parks Field to honor the memory of former M-A student Lucy Lunt during Leadership’s second annual Lucy Run on Saturday. Lunt passed away in 2023 after a battle with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a rare genetic disease that causes severe muscle weakness and depletion.
Lunt touched the lives of many M-A students and is remembered for her compassion, always prioritizing others despite her personal challenges. “Even though she was struggling, she was so selfless. She thought so deeply about others,” senior Tula Basta said.
Attendees paid a $10 fee to participate in the run that raised funds for SMA research and support, with all proceeds going to the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation. T-shirts, cookies, and friendship bracelets with inspiring messages and colorful designs were sold at the event.
To celebrate Lunt, participants wore pink, her favorite color, and listened to Taylor Swift, one of her favorite musical artists. Leadership also covered the campus in pink decorations.
Participants excitedly gathered on the track when the run was about to begin. Leadership students counted down, holding up confetti cannons. With a burst of cheers, confetti rained onto the ground, and participants began the race.
“There were people of all different ages. Even though not everyone knew each other, we were all collectively running for one great cause,” senior Avary Sheldon said.
Attendees ran through a towering balloon arch as they finished their run, then enjoyed grilled pork sandwiches, chips, and pink lemonade.
Besides raising funds for SMA research, the event celebrated the community bond. “Lucy loved bringing the community together, and she loved big events,” junior Elise Miller, one of the organizers of the event, said. “She would be so happy that she was able to bring everyone together like this.”
“This event did a good job of commemorating Lucy. Not only is it bringing all of her friends and family together, but it’s so special that we’re celebrating the little things she loved,” senior Natalie Shannon said.
To support SMA research and families affected by SMA, you can donate to the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation.
